DIALOGUE KEY TO RESOLVING WORSHIP SITE DISPUTES, SAYS MHS

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 12 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s firm stance that no party has the right to take matters into their own hands outside the framework of the law in issues related to places of worship is a clear signal that national stability and harmony cannot be compromised.

The reminder, issued amid renewed public debate over the construction of places of worship without approval across various platforms, reflects the government’s priority to ensure the country’s multiracial society continues to live in peace and mutual respect.

Ready to work together to address the issue through consensus, Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) vice-president Datuk RS Mohan Shan said dialogue and constructive discussions between state governments, relevant agencies and representatives of religious communities are key to ensuring that issues involving unauthorised places of worship are handled appropriately.

Mohan, who is also vice-president of the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST), said the organisation has records and a census of temples nationwide and is prepared to share the information to help the government obtain a clearer picture of the situation on the ground.

“This issue is not new. Many temples have long existed in plantation areas with the consent of landowners at the time. When the land is sold or developed, disputes then arise. So we must find a fair solution and not only listen to one side.

“We are not unwilling to discuss or relocate if there is development. But there must be transparent and fair negotiations. If a site indeed needs to be vacated, then discuss alternative locations and the best way to relocate the temple concerned,” he said.

Meanwhile, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Institute of Ethnic Studies director Distinguished Professor Datuk Shamsul Amri Baharuddin said issues related to places of worship cannot be separated from the framework of the Federal Constitution and the country’s federal structure, as religious and land matters fall under state jurisdiction.

“Religion and land are state matters. We are a federation. Therefore, state governments play a key role, including through the state executive councils, Islamic religious councils and non-Islamic affairs committees at the state level.

“A more integrated approach needs to be undertaken by involving state leadership in explaining to the public, especially on procedures and the actual legal and land administration status of a place of worship,” he said.

He also suggested that the government involve non-governmental organisations representing the MHS community in any discussions on the matter, as such bodies can clarify the real situation and help ease tensions.

“If the government wants to be involved in this issue, it must engage Malaysia Hindu Sangam because the body manages the affairs of the Hindu community nationwide,” he said.

-- BERNAMA

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